Managers often focus on what to do, but forget the importance of when to do it. Sense of timing is an underrated management skill that can determine whether a decision succeeds or fails.
Announcing a new strategy, giving feedback, or launching a product all depend on timing. A well-planned initiative can fail if introduced during team fatigue or market instability, while a modest idea may succeed if delivered at the right moment.
How managers can improve timing:
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Pay attention to team rhythms—choose moments when energy and focus are highest.
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Monitor external signals, such as industry cycles or customer behavior.
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Practice patience—sometimes the best decision is to wait.
Good timing is invisible when done well, but disastrous when ignored. Managers who master timing not only make better decisions but also build trust, as their actions consistently feel “just right” to their teams and stakeholders.
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